Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding: Pubs to stay open late

As it was confirmed pubs across the country will open late to mark the
Royal Wedding, David Cameron pledged his support for street parties.

Prince William and Kate Middleton at the announcement of their engagement (Pic: AFP)

Home Office minister James Brokenshire said the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton was ‘an occasion for national celebration’ and licensing hours should be extended until 1am on April 29 and 30. Pubs will be allowed to stay open until 1am for two nights of partying as part of the celebrations.

Landlords will not have to ask permission from local licensing authorities, meaning staff and customers alike will be able to party away without needing to worry about the usual late-opening red tape. The government hopes that tourism driven by the royal wedding will help with the recovery of the economy.

Meanwhile Prime Minister David Cameron announced his support for street parties to celebrate the historic event. Using the threat of strike action to make a dig at Labour, he said yesterday: ‘I know that, outside some of the large trade unions that fund the party opposite, everyone else wants to have a real celebration for the Olympics, for the Diamond Jubilee and for the royal wedding.’I think we should certainly make it easier for people to close streets and have street parties.’